It seems every year I don't get the shot, I suffer and suffer greatly! I always make sure the kids get the jab, but some times I make excuses for me -- mainly being too busy and not having time to go down and get it done. Of course, then I come down with the flu and lose more time than I would have had I just gotten the shot in the first place.
Well, not this year. Last week I took my two son's down the MinuteClinic inside the CVS/pharmacy down the road.
The CDC is recommending everyone get the flu shot this year. Especially children ages 6 months to 19 years and those in contact with high risk groups.
This is because there is plenty of vaccine to go around, and last year was a really bad year for the flu. Apparently, last year's flu shot was only 40% effective -- normally, it is between 85-90% effective. However, the good news is, if you get the flu shot, then get the flu, you're symptoms will generally be less severe and shorter than if you were not inoculated.
Because the flu is a virus, the flu shot is formulated differently every year. The shot has three variables -- the two most common flu strains from the previous year, plus a third random variable. And by the way, it's a "dead" virus so you won't get the flu from the shot.
More information on the flu, myths and facts and faq's can be found here.
Now, one thing you need to know about my oldest, Josh. He's seven and is the worst person EVER for shots. Usually it takes 2 nurses and me to hold him down while a 3rd nurse gives him the shot. And we need to hand out ear plugs to all those in the waiting room. Not a pretty sight. I'm happy to say, the flu shot he had this year went off with out a hitch. He cried when he found out he was getting one. But I just held him in my lap, the nurse gave him the jab and that was it! Easy-Peasy-Lemon-squeezy! My three year old was just as easy too. Now our arms were sore later, but the shot itself was nothing.
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